Ariana Grande is reportedly at risk of withdrawing from the upcoming West End revival of Sunday in the Park With George, as concerns mount over her increasingly busy schedule. The 32-year-old singer and actress is set to star alongside Jonathan Bailey, her co-star from Wicked, in the Stephen Sondheim musical scheduled for next summer. However, ticket sales have been postponed until autumn, fueling speculation that Grande may no longer be able to commit to the demanding role.
Producers Seek Backup Plan
Show organizers are reportedly searching for a potential replacement in case Grande is unable to fulfill her obligations. This development comes during a hectic period for the pop star, who recently ended her three-year relationship with Ethan Slater, another Wicked co-star. Additionally, she launched her Eternal Sunshine tour in the United States this month, raising concerns that she is becoming oversubscribed.
A source told The Sun: 'Ariana has a lot on her plate and there are concerns she is oversubscribed. It's too risky to start flogging tickets until it's all locked down. It will be a demanding production with eight shows a week.'
Details of the Musical
Sunday in the Park with George is a revival of the classic Sondheim musical, directed by Marianne Elliott. While the specific roles for Grande and Bailey have not been confirmed, the female lead is Dot, the lover of the painter George. The story explores the strain on their romance as George's artistic obsession alienates those around him. According to the official website, tickets will go on sale in August 2026 via the Barbican website.
In addition to the musical and her ongoing tour, Grande is also slated to appear in the thirteenth season of American Horror Story. A new album titled Petal is expected to be released on July 31.
Personal Life Updates
Despite the hectic schedule, reports suggest Grande is 'doing great' following her split from Ethan Slater. The couple first met on the set of Wicked and went Instagram official in November 2024. Their relationship began after both ended previous relationships: Grande separated from then-husband Dalton Gomez, while Slater filed for divorce from his high-school sweetheart Lilly Jay in July 2023. An insider told People Magazine that the split was amicable, stating, 'They are still friends and very supportive of one another.' Another source added that Grande has 'seemed very happy' and is 'incredibly focused on preparing for her tour.'
Grande will bring her Eternal Sunshine tour to the UK this autumn, performing at the O2 Arena in London from August 15 to September 1.
Controversy Over Music Usage
Last week, Grande publicly condemned the White House for using her song 'Bye' in a TikTok montage promoting immigration arrests by ICE. She commented on the video, 'Please do not ever use my music in relation to this barbaric, inhumane, heinous nonsense,' and later added, 'F*** ICE.'
Metro has reached out to Ariana Grande and the Barbican for comment.
